Association between fear of falling and physical activity levels among older people living in the community

Abstract

The report of fear of falling is very common among older people, and this fear generates a limitation of activities of daily living, causing a decrease in mobility, dependence and a possible reduction in physical activity levels, which may increase the risk of falls.. However, previous studies that demonstrate the relationship between fear of falling and physical activity levels are scarce. Objective: The main objective is to investigate the relationship between fear of falling and physical activity levels among older people living in the community. The secondary objective is to evaluate the association of balance and mobility variables with fear of falling in this population. Methods: The sample will be composed of 150 older people of both sexes, without cognitive deficits and that are able to walk independently. The Falls Efficacy Scale - International questionnaire will be applied to measure the fear of falling, the Modified Baecke Questionnaire for older people to investigate physical activity levels, and for the balance and mobility outcomes we will use the Short Physical Performance Battery questionnaire integrated with single-leg stance test with both eyes closed and opened. The association between fear of falling and physical activity levels will be examined with bivariate correlation analyzes and multivariate linear regression models. (AU)